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The Enigmatic Skinny House: A Testament to Boston's Unique History

Explore the Skinny House in Boston's North End, a quirky historical landmark that embodies the city's unique architectural charm and captivating stories.

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Nestled in the charming North End of Boston, the Skinny House, also known as the Spite House, is a remarkable historical landmark that attracts inquisitive tourists from around the globe. This narrow structure, measuring a mere 10 feet wide, was constructed in the late 19th century as a direct response to a family feud. The story goes that the house was built by a man who wanted to block the view of his brother’s larger home, showcasing the lengths to which individuals will go to express their grievances. The Skinny House stands as a testament to Boston's rich history and the quirky tales that shape its character. Visitors are drawn not only by the unique architectural style but also by the intriguing backstory that surrounds this landmark. The exterior, with its charming facade and distinctively narrow profile, begs for a photograph, and many tourists find themselves captivated by its unusual features. As you explore the North End, home to some of Boston's best Italian cuisine, you can easily include this landmark in your itinerary. The Skinny House is not just a structure; it’s a part of the vibrant narrative that makes Boston such an alluring destination. While the Skinny House may not offer guided tours or extensive exhibits, the opportunity to witness a piece of history is what makes it worthwhile. The surrounding area is rich with other historical sites, so it’s easy to spend an afternoon wandering through the streets of the North End, absorbing the culture and stories that Boston has to offer. Don’t forget to take a moment to appreciate the architectural ingenuity that this house represents, making it a perfect stop for history buffs and casual tourists alike.

Local tips

  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and capture the best photos.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll through the North End to enjoy delicious Italian food nearby.
  • Bring a camera to capture the unique architecture from multiple angles.
  • Take a moment to read about its history on the nearby informational plaques.
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A brief summary to Skinny House (Spite House) Boston, MA

  • 44 Hull St, Boston, North End, Massachusetts, 02113, US

Getting There

  • Car

    If you are driving from Salem, get on I-95 S from Washington St and follow the signs for I-93 S/Boston. Merge onto I-93 S and continue for about 15 miles. Take exit 23 for Purchase St toward South Station. Continue straight onto Purchase St, then turn left onto Atlantic Ave. Continue onto State St, then turn right onto Congress St. Finally, turn left onto Hull St. The Skinny House will be on your left at 44 Hull St, Boston, MA 02113.

  • Public Transportation

    To reach the Skinny House via public transportation, start at the Salem MBTA station. Take the commuter rail toward Boston's North Station. The ride takes about 30-40 minutes. Once you arrive at North Station, exit and walk toward Causeway St. From there, take the Green Line (C or E train) to Haymarket Station. Walk towards Blackstone St and then onto Congress St. Turn left onto Hull St. The Skinny House will be on your left at 44 Hull St, Boston, MA 02113.

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